Dear T(w)een,

Welcome to adolescence. I am sure that it has been both everything that you wanted it to be and unfortunately some of what you were worried it would be. It is likely that you have made great friends and lost some good ones too. It is probable that there has been more tension at home as you have expressed your growing need for space and freedom. And it is reasonable to assume that you have been riding the emotional roller coaster, causing you to feel great one minute and then unbearably low and alone the next.

Adolescence is a time when you feel like no one understands. It may feel like you are the only one who is self-conscious, or is struggling in school. You may be convinced that you are the only one who is overwhelmed by family pressure, peer pressure, or academic pressure. You might wonder if you are the only one in pain, hurting, or sad. Adolescence can feel lonely. But know:

You are not alone.

Adolescence. A time when all you want to do is fit in but most of the time you feel that you stand out. Maybe your hair is too straight or not straight enough. Maybe your clothes don’t have the right logo or you aren’t skilled at the right sports. Maybe you are too tall, too small, too funny, or not funny enough. Maybe you don’t get enough likes or have long enough streaks. Maybe you don’t excel in school or hang with the right people. This period of your life might lead you to feel inadequate. But know:

You are enough.

Adolescence is a time when you feel that you must solve everything on your own, if only to prove your growing independence. You may feel that hiding your feelings or coping alone is a sign of strength. You may think asking for help or getting advice is a sign of weakness. You may not know how or where to ask for help. But, carrying your worries, struggles, and feelings alone can be overwhelming. You should know:

There is help.

Adolescence is likely to bring some of your best days and some of your worst days. Thanks to hormones, you will be riding high when things are good and inevitably will feel very low when things are bad. In fact, adolescence is not unlike a roller coaster with no clear end in sight. This time of your life will bring the full spectrum of emotions. But remember:

This too shall pass.

And when it does, because it inevitably will, if you were able to hold on to your strengths, keep focused on your goals, and stay true to who you are, then you will not only survive, but you will really thrive. This time in your life will bring great change. Change characterized by independence, growth, and opportunity. And, if you let it, this period will bring great possibility.

Warmly,

Your therapist and fellow survivor